Neuroprotective effect of wogonin in hippocampal slice culture exposed to oxygen and glucose deprivation

A poor supply of oxygen and glucose to the brain can cause severe brain damage. Therefore, neuroprotective drugs against ischemia need to be developed. In this study, wogonin, a flavone found in Scutellaria baicalensis, had a protective effect on neuronal cells damaged by oxygen and glucose deprivation in rat hippocampal slices in culture. In particular, the protective effect on the pyramidal cell layer was significant. On the basis of these experimental results, wogonin may be a therapeutic agent for treating ischemia in patients. (C) 2004 Published by Elsevier B.V.